Location: 
Palo Alto
Employment Type: 
Contract
Job ID: 
134815
Description: 

#MON
R&D Support Specialist -

Ready to join the AQ era?

We are solving challenging problems with AI + Quantum for positive impact. We partner with global leaders in government, academia, and the private sector to identify applications that would benefit from quantum-based applications to current and future commercial challenges.

We engage with customers early and throughout the development process to improve market fit.

Our team’s unique approach enables cross-pollination across a diverse range of fields, from physics, computer science, neuroscience, mathematics, cryptography, natural sciences and more! Our success comes from coalescing diverse talent to create an environment where experimental thinking and collaboration yield breakthrough AI + Quantum solutions. Join a culture where thought leadership, diverse talent, employee engagement, and technological impact will create the next tech uproar.

We are deeply committed to education as a means to advance quantum solutions and computing initiatives. We invest in future talent through internship programs, research papers, developer tools, textbooks, educational talks/events and partnerships with universities/talent hubs to attract multi-disciplinary talent. Our hope is to inspire people from all walks of life to be prepared for the quantum era and encourage a path in STEM.

About the role:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic R&D Support Specialist to join us. In this role, you will play a crucial role in deploying our experimental sensor systems, maintaining our laboratory facilities, managing equipment, and ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our research and development activities. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about science and technology, thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced start-up environment, and possesses strong organizational skills.

What you’ll do:

Research Support: Collaborate closely with the research and development team to initiate, configure, and sustain continuous laboratory experiments. Ensure the availability of essential resources, materials, and equipment for the secure and efficient execution of research.

This role encompasses hands-on technical support which encompasses the operation of R&D prototype devices / apparatus.

Deployed system support: Help the team deploy experimental setups from the lab to the field, including customer site installations. Service systems in fielded deployments.

Lab Organization and Maintenance: Take charge of setting up and organizing the laboratory space, ensuring it is well-maintained, safe, and compliant with industry regulations. This includes maintaining lab equipment, small machine tools, and coordinating waste disposal procedures.

Equipment Management: Oversee the procurement, installation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments. Collaborate with vendors and service providers to ensure consistent high performance of equipment.

Safety Compliance: Implement and enforce safety protocols, especially related to power tool usage in a small on-site machine shop. Ensure all lab personnel follow safety regulations and guidelines. Conduct regular safety inspections, provide safety training, and maintain accurate records of safety protocols.

Inventory Management: Manage the lab inventory efficiently, establishing and maintaining asset control protocols, and organize the procurement of necessary supplies and materials with a given set of budget constraints.

Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for process improvement, implement new strategies, and optimize lab workflows to enhance productivity and efficiency.

What you should have:

  • Proven experience (2+ years) working in a laboratory setting. Examples include (but are not limited to) academic research labs, national labs, machine shops, clean rooms, production floors, automotive repair shops, and maker spaces.
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering/ scientific discipline (e.g., Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or related fields) is a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of laboratory and power tool safety procedures, protocols, and regulations.
  • Proficiency in handling and maintaining laboratory equipment and instruments.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail to manage lab operations efficiently.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment.
  • Familiarity with industrial / scientific safety and compliance.
  • Problem-solving mindset and ability to address challenges creatively.
  • Possible travel at times. 

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